By Rayyanu Bala

Senator Ahmed Wadada’s recent declaration in Moro, during a civic reception organized by Governor Sule’s Special Adviser on Information, Communication, and ICT, Hon. Danlami Lawal Moro, on his return to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Nasarawa State, is not just timely, it is the kind of bold, visionary move our state urgently needs.

In a political landscape often characterized by uninspired contestants, Senator Wadada’s return to the APC offers a breath of fresh air, one backed by integrity, deep grassroots connections, and an unwavering commitment to development.

I think it was Aristotle who once noted, “politics is a game of numbers and networks”. But in Nasarawa State, it is equally about trust, credibility, and delivery, and Senator Wadada ticks all the boxes. His historic win of the Keffi West senatorial seat under the Social Democratic Party (SDP), just three months after decamping from the APC, is a testament to his personal popularity and credibility, as well as the people’s unwavering belief in his leadership.

One of Senator Wadada’s enduring qualities is his strong connection to the grassroots. His philanthropic efforts, spanning the entire state and cutting across political, religious, and ethnic lines, are a clear reflection of his popularity and commitment to inclusive governance since his days in the House of Representatives.

Senator Wadada is the kind of leader Nasarawa desperately needs after Engr. Abdullahi Sule.

Where others make empty campaign promises, Senator Wadada takes action. Where many view public office as a means for personal gain, Senator Wadada sees it as a divine calling. His consistent emphasis on divine will and his belief that power ultimately comes from God are not mere political posturing, they reflect a man who respects the sacred trust between a leader and the people.

Senator Wadada is no stranger to the political scene in Nasarawa and beyond. His pivotal role in the formation and early success of the APC in Nasarawa State is well documented. His return to the party, therefore, should not be viewed as an act of desperation, as some have suggested , but rather as a strategic and welcomed homecoming that strengthens the party’s foundation and broadens its appeal.

At the event in Moro, Senator Wadada was quoted as saying:
“With due humility, nobody among those aspiring for governorship in Nasarawa State is ahead of me.”

This statement is not arrogance. It is a clear-eyed assessment from a man who has built political bridges, delivered on his mandates, and earned the people’s trust. Indeed, he is ahead of all current aspirants. He has been in the race for the governorship of Nasarawa State since 2019. Which of the current aspirants was there then? These are pertinent questions we must ask ourselves.

In a landscape filled with politicians who thrive on mediocrity, we should welcome someone who combines political wisdom with widespread acceptance.

Even as Senator Wadada declares his return to the APC, he speaks the language of unity, hope, and progress. He does not insult his opponents, instead, he emphasizes the traits that define true leadership: service, competence, and popular support. His turbaning as Magajin Dangin Lafian Bare Bari by the Emir of Lafia and Chairman of the Nasarawa State Council of Chiefs, Justice Sidi Mohammad Bage is no small feat. It reflects deep-rooted traditional and cultural endorsement across the state political structures.

Certainly, Senator Wadada’s return to the APC brings back a stabilizing force, one that can help the party navigate both internal and external dynamics with maturity, focus, and clarity of vision. Rather than fear or resist his return, both the APC and the good people of Nasarawa State should rally around his candidacy. He possesses the vision, the following, and the experience to take Nasarawa to new heights, more than any other aspirant.

However, as the 2027 elections approach, Nasarawa stands at a crossroads. Will we continue down the old, divisive path of religious and ethnic sentiments? Or will we embrace a leader who understands our pain, shares our values, and is ready to deliver real transformation?

Yes, Senator Aliyu Ahmad Wadada is not just another aspirant, he is a tested and trusted leader whose time has come. His return to the APC should be welcomed, not questioned. His ambition should be supported, not resisted. His vision should be embraced by every citizen of Nasarawa who dreams of a better, more inclusive, and prosperous future.

It is indeed, time we unite behind Senator Wadada. Let us give Nasarawa the leadership it truly deserves.